Jason Maskiell is close to a permanent return to Victorian racing after claiming a satisfying win at Flemington on Saturday.
The Tasmanian jockey’s career in Melbourne was derailed a couple of years ago due to alcohol and discipline issues which escalated when he received a six-month ban for a positive drug test.
He made his comeback this season in Tasmania where he has continued to base himself but said he was close to a full time return to Victoria.
“I’ll move back very shortly,” Maskiell said.
“I’m not sure where I’m going to be stationed yet but I’m looking forward to coming back.”
Maskiell won the David Bourke Provincial Plate (1600m) aboard The Cleaner at Flemington on Saturday, his first winner in Melbourne for more than two years.
After the race the 22-year-old described the win as probably the most emotional of his career.
The Cleaner has been transferred from Tasmanian trainer Mick Burles to Caulfield-based Robert Smerdon for a Victorian campaign and Maskiell will continue his association with the five-year-old.
Smerdon was one of the trainers to sack Maskiell two years ago but said he was happy to have him back.
“He rides him well, he knows him and he’s a good rider who has been here before and knows the tracks. I can’t see any reason to break that partnership up,” Smerdon said.
Maskiell was the champion apprentice in Melbourne in the 2009/10 season and finished equal second in the overall Melbourne jockeys’ premiership.
